New applications of photogrammetry and reflectance transformation imaging to an Easter Island statue

Abstract

New methods of visualisation offer the potential for a more detailed record of archaeological objects and the ability to create virtual 3D models that can be made widely available online. Here, two different techniques are applied to the impressive Easter Island statue on display in the Wellcome Gallery at the British Museum. Of particular importance are the details revealed of the petroglyphs that decorate its surface.

A stabilizer-free non-polar dispersion for the deacidification of contemporary art on paper

“…In recent years, the use of reflectance transformation imaging is diffusing in the Cultural Heritage field [47][48][49][50][51]. For what concerns Arienti's drawings, RTI was chosen for the non-invasive evaluation of changes in paper topography due to the application of the proposed deacidification method.…”

Using photogrammetry to interpret human action on Neolithic monument boulders in Ireland's Cavan Burren

“…Demonstrating the background research behind a proposed reconstruction was not part of the process at that time (Stout and Stout, 2008), nor was it practical. Fortunately, 21st-century, digital technology allows researchers with ordinary technical skills and equipment to make assessments of potential artifacts that are rapid, accurate, revealing, and easily presented to others (Chandler et al, 2007;Miles et al, 2014). These assessments, in turn, allow preservation authorities to make informed decisions and take appropriate precautions to secure and maintain valuable sites.…”

“…In a manner consistent with investigations of terracotta warriors from ancient China (Bevan et al, 2014) and inscribed stones from the UK (Spring and Peters, 2014), we sought to document the objects in detail to allow comparisons in shape and context with similar artifacts in the region. Due to the accuracy of the method, we felt that a digital 3D mesh could: 1) provide richer data for studying objects' forms and mechanical origins (Spring and Peters, 2014); 2) establish the similarity of their patterns with patterns in other Cavan Burren artifacts (Bevan et al, 2014); and 3) be used to clearly and noninvasively demonstrate theoretical understanding in a format that can be widely available (De Reu et al, 2013;Miles et al, 2014).…”

Recording and Analysis of Ship Graffiti in St Thomas’ Church and Blackfriars Barn Undercroft in Winchelsea, East Sussex, UK

“…The result is impressive surface detail enhancement, proving particularly useful when such details have been worn by the elements, as was the case with the plaster surface in the Blackfriars Barn undercroft. Although digital recording systems raise questions about data quality and authenticity, this topic has been adequately addressed in the specialized literature by comparing RTI images with other imaging methods (Mudge et al ., ; Miles et al ., : 601–4; Miles et al ., : 150–2). Good examples of the suitability of RTI for this sort of recording come from Mudge et al .’s work on the conservation of Roman and ancient Greek coins () and palaeolithic rock art ().…”